Perez named local rabies control officer

Staff Reports

Jefferson Police Chief Tino Perez and his designee, was appointed the City’s Local Rabies Control Officer  during Tuesday’s Council meeting. 

The Texas Health and Safety Code requires the City and County to appoint an LRCO. Neither entity has someone on file with the State Health Department.

The issue was raised last week during a budget workshop by Friends of Jefferson Animals.

The LRCO is the person required to investigate every animal bite and other potential rabies exposure to a human.

Chief Perez said he is working on the required certification and training for himself and his officers, and that additional safety equipment would be required. 

He also indicated a quarantine location would need to be determined or contracted for, at additional costs.